Women in Horror Month Interview with TV Fanatic Girl

Category: Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Happy Throwback Thursday TV Fans! Since many of my favorite shows are not airing new episodes this week, I thought it would be the perfect time to revisit one of my favorite shows of all time…Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

One of the reasons why I adore this show so much is because the music is so fitting and perfect. We don’t just get random bands playing or background for a soundtrack. We witness these beautiful and earth-shattering moments on the show accompanied by the perfect piece of music.

If I even hear some of these songs now, I am immediately transported to a particular moment or scene from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. While some of the songs listed have been featured by performers on the show, others may be lesser known, and some are even from the musical episode, “Once More, With Feeling.”

One thing is for certain…these songs are beautiful on their own, but when they are paired with epic moments on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, they become something even greater, filled with passion, heartbreak, and soul searching.

**Please note some spoilers are ahead if you have not watched the full series yet.**

Without any further delay, let’s get to my list!

My Top 10 Iconic Songs Featured on Buffy the Vampire Slayer are:

10

I Can’t Take My Eyes Off You (Melanie Doane)

Song featured in episode “Family” (5×6)

Who could forget this magical and romantic moment between Willow and Tara? After Tara tells Willow how she always makes her feel so special, we witness a beautiful slow dance between them and we even get to see some levitating as well. Talk about walking on air!

9

Rest in Peace (James Marsters)

Song featured in episode “Once More, With Feeling” (6×7)

I love every single song in the musical episode, but there has to be something said about Spike’s edgy rock performance of this one.He sings his heart out for Buffy with one of my favorite lines of all time: “If my heart could beat, it would break my chest.” Swoon!

8

Goodbye to You (Michelle Branch)

Song featured in episode “Tabula Rasa” (6×8)

I love Michelle Branch and was so excited to see her perform this song on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Buffy featured many wonderful performers at The Bronze, but there was something extra magnetic about this performance. It was paired perfectly with several heartbreaking moments going on in the episode.

We witness Tara and Giles leaving and Buffy and Spike kissing in The Bronze, reminding us that so much has changed, but sometimes we need to walk away from those we love the most.

7

Under Your Spell (Amber Benson)

Song featured in episode “Once More, With Feeling” (6×7)

Another beautiful and magical moment for Willow and Tara. Their costumes are lovely, they walk through the park on a beautiful day, and let’s throw in the fact that Amber Benson has an amazing singing voice! Wow!

6

Blue (Angie Hart)

Song featured in episode “Conversations with Dead People” (7×7)

You really have to be in the right mood to listen to this song and watch this episode. The slow melodic feel really accompanies the opening moments of this episode to perfection. The haunting melody mirrors everything that our characters are going through. There is this feeling of loneliness creeping in and it is amplified by the soundtrack, proving once again how incredible this series is.

5

Something to Sing About (Sarah Michelle Gellar)

Song featured in episode “Once More, With Feeling” (6×7)

Another one of my all time favorite songs featured in the musical episode. Seriously, is there anything Joss Whedon can’t do?Sarah Michelle Gellar gives us an incredible performance with some welcomed backup from Tara and Anya. This song is catchy and entertaining, but there is also this huge reveal in it that completely shatters everyone, including the audience. Talk about a powerful song!

4

Full of Grace (Sarah McLachlan)

Song featured in episode “Becoming Part 2” (2×22)

This is probably one of the most memorable songs for me ever on the series and part of that is because it is featured in my all time favorite episode…Becoming Part 2. Buffy is forced to kill Angel to save the world after his soul is restored, which is one of the most heartbreaking moments I have ever witnessed on any show.

If you weren’t crying already, we then listen to this song as Buffy prepares to leave Sunnydale behind for good, unable to cope with what has just happened.

3

Walk Through the Fire (Sarah Michelle Gellar & Cast)

Song featured in episode “Once More, With Feeling” (6×7)

My absolute favorite song of the musical episode!The lyrics are dark and beautiful, but I also love that it starts off with Sarah Michelle Gellar alone, mirroring her destiny as the chosen one in this indescribable pain and then cuts to the other characters, reminding us that they are all in this together. Beautiful song and amazing cast!

2

Wild Horses (The Sundays)

Song featured in episode “The Prom” (3×20)

Probably the ultimate Bangel moment for me.Even though the beautiful Bangel instrumental music that typically is in the background is epic enough, they deserved another song to truly put them into the spotlight.

After Buffy’s classmates actually prove that they have noticed all she has done for them by awarding her with the “Class Protector” award, Buffy’s night is not over yet. Even though Angel is leaving town, he decides to surprise Buffy at the prom and we get to witness a beautiful and romantic slow dance between them. Perfection!

Quick shout out to “They Got The Mustard Out!!!!”

Drum roll please…

1

Buffy the Vampire Slayer Theme Song (Nerf Herder)

Theme song for Buffy the Vampire Slayer

I’m really not sure how I could have possibly placed the iconic theme song at any other spot. It deserves the number one spot today and it is incredibly catchy and memorable. It is probably my favorite theme song of all time on any show and it perfectly captures the essence of our bad-ass slayer, Buffy Summers.

This is the only song that I ever learned to play on the guitar and I will forever be proud of that!

I hope you enjoyed the list Scoobies and Slayers and feel free to post your own thoughts and comments on your favorite songs featured on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**Do you love television shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Once Upon a Time, Lost, Charmed, The Vampire Diaries, and Supernatural?Do you enjoydark fantasy,fairy-tale retellings,paranormal romance, horror, and mystery? Then you may like my book series, Dreaming of Wonderland…available on Amazon! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well. I really hope you enjoy!

Happy Wednesday TV fans! As I near the end of my Buffy the Vampire Slayer re-watch, it really got me thinking about how many epic moments there are between Buffy and Spike. While I tend to prefer Buffy and Angel together romantically, I cannot ignore the spark between these two and I’m sure that Spuffy fans would agree.

For today, I am going to be ranking the top 5 moments featuring Buffy and Spike. I was having a little bit of trouble deciding because there are so many outstanding moments and I did ask for input from Spuffy fans on Twitter as well. Thank you so much for your help and participation! I’m glad to know that I was not the only one having trouble with this, but I think that really proves that all of these Spuffy moments truly stand the test of time.

Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the full series yet.

During this episode, Buffy seeks out Spike’s help after she is almost killed by a vampire. Spike has killed two slayers in his lifetime and Buffy is looking to find out more about this. We get to see a glimpse into Spike’s past and learn that he was previously a “bloody awful poet” before being turned into a vampire.

During present day, Spike has the chip in his head and is beyond furious with Buffy after she tells him that he is beneath her, which is what Cecily said to Spike so many years ago. Spike decides that he is going to kill Buffy to even the score, but has a sudden change of heart when he sees her crying on the porch.

Buffy has just found out that her mother is extremely sick and she takes a moment outside to try and deal with this. In a beautiful and selfless moment, Spike simply asks Buffy “what’s wrong” and sits next to her on the porch in silence. Buffy may not be ready to talk about it just yet, but this gesture is very much appreciated and reveals that Spike is capable of friendship and goodness even before his soul is returned.

During this episode, Spike’s “Buffybot” is both hilarious and slightly disturbing. Spike’s infatuation with Buffy has reached a new level, as he “role plays” with Warren’s creation. Glory’s minions notice that “Buffybot” is protecting Spike as if he were “precious” and mistake him for the key. Glory tortures Spike badly, but he refuses to give Dawn up because he knows that it would destroy Buffy.

At the end of the episode, the real Buffy pretends to be “Buffybot” to find out what Spike said. After Spike reveals that he did not tell her anything, Buffy kisses him. This is the first “real” kiss between these two. Buffy does it to thank him, but Spike is beyond shocked by this act and I was pleasantly surprised myself.

3

Buffy tells Spike she loves him right before he sacrifices himself (Moment from “Chosen” season 7, episode 22).

In the series finale, Spike sacrifices himself to destroy the hellmouth. Right before he dies, he tells Buffy that he can feel his soul. Buffy holds his hand, which begins to burst into flames and tells Spike that she loves him. Spike says, “No you don’t. But thanks for saying it.”

While this moment is absolutely heartbreaking, Spike’s purpose has now been fulfilled. He saves the world and protects Buffy, truly earning the title of a “champion.” Buffy recognizes his sacrifice and tells him that she loves him because he deserves to hear it. Whether she means it or not, this moment truly touches my heart and soul.

2

Buffy and Spike kiss at the end of the musical (Moment from “Once More, with Feeling” season 6, episode 7).

You can’t help singing along to the musical episode of Buffy. Or maybe you can, but I absolutely know all of the words and I’m not ashamed to admit that. There have been undeniable sparks between Buffy and Spike leading to this moment and at the very end of the musical episode, Buffy and Spike share an epic kiss.

It’s like you can see the fireworks going off at this moment, as these two finally begin a romantic relationship. While their relationship has many ups and downs, this kiss is beyond swoon-worthy. Most fans voted for this particular moment as their favorite and I have to admit that I was pretty torn as well, but I ultimately decided that there was one more moment that really showcased the love between Buffy and Spike even more. At least for me.

Buffy learns that Spike’s soul has returned (Moment from “Beneath You” season 7, episode 2).

Buffy & Spike take down a building (Moment from “Smashed” season 6, episode 9).

Buffy tells Spike that she was in heaven (Moment from “After Life” season 6, episode 3).

Spike tells The First that Buffy believes in him (Moment from “Bring on the Night” season 7, episode 10).

1

Spike tells Buffy that she’s the one (Moment from “Touched” Season 7, episode 20).

After re-watching the series, this moment still remains as my absolute favorite for Buffy and Spike. Spike’s speech to Buffy is so real and perfect. He tells her how he feels with every part of his being and speaks from the heart. Buffy is feeling lost and confused and Spike reminds her that she is a “hell of a woman” and “the one.”

Later in the episode, Buffy and Spike just hold each other, which is truly something magical. This simple expression of their love is so pure and perfect. Their relationship has transcended into something beyond epic in this moment and I wouldn’t have it play out any other way.

Later in the series, Spike even tells Buffy that it was the best night of his life and it’s definitely my favorite moment for these two!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own comments and thoughts about your favorite moments featuring Buffy & Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**I would love it if you would take a moment to check out my Whizbuzz Book page via the link below for everything you need to know about my new book, The Search for Alice, including my author bio page and links to my website and social media sites! Thank you!

If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe.Thanks for your support!

I am so excited to announce that my book,The Search for Alice, is now available!If you enjoy fairy-tale retellings, paranormal romance, horror, and mystery, then this might be the book for you or someone you know! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well. I hope you enjoy!

When Kallie Bennett, a jaded teenage girl plagued by her alcoholic mother and her peers molded out of sheer bubble gum perfection, chases after Alice in Wonderland herself, she ends up lost in her own version of Wonderland, which forces her to face her utmost fears and introduces her to familiar characters with a dark twist. Among these characters is Ches, a gorgeous vampire with a conflicted conscience, who becomes Kallie’s guide and blossoming love interest. She also crosses paths with Queen Hartley, a manipulative witch who has the power to strip away one’s memories and imagination, which brings a bone chilling new meaning to “off with their heads.” In The Search for Alice, Kallie starts to realize that her Wonderland is just as frightening as her own reality and that she cannot always run away from her problems. She must figure out a way to defeat Queen Hartley and return home before it is too late, but she soon learns that escaping Wonderland means leaving Ches behind forever.

Want to read more? You can click the linkdirectly below for a free preview. Thanks for your support!

“If my heart could beat, it would break my chest” (Spike). When you think about epic love, what comes to mind? Is it that indescribable feeling that you get within your gut? Is it the tears that pour down your face when you witness a significant moment that will change your outlook on love forever?

I think that epic love can be described in so many different ways and that is what makes it so incredibly powerful. It can be passionate and fiery or even one-sided, but there is something to be said about the things we do for love. As I am re-watching one of my all time favorite television series, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, I have realized that Joss Whedon does an incredible job of introducing us to so many great loves on the show. They don’t end up living happily ever after, but that’s what makes them so real and consuming.

We watch our favorite characters go through heartbreaking moments, as they desperately try to pick up the pieces when it seems impossible to do so. However, we cannot deny the chemistry and beautiful connections they have shared, touching our hearts and souls in the process. Please note spoilers are ahead.

My top five ships from Buffy the Vampire Slayer are:

5

Giles & Jenny

Giles: In my years as watcher, I’ve buried too many people. But Jenny was the first I loved.(Passion, season 2 episode 17)

The budding romance between Giles and Jenny was absolutely delightful to watch. Even though they both often spent their time supervising Buffy and the Scoobies, they had some undeniably sweet moments together and real chemistry. Jenny often teased Giles and he would get baffled in front of her, which was absolutely adorable. However, a strain was put on their relationship after Jenny was possessed by a demon targeting Giles.

We then later found out that Jenny was sent to Sunnydale to watch Angel, as her ancestors were responsible for the curse of his soul. Giles supported Buffy here and kept Jenny at a distance, but Buffy eventually let go of her anger and confided to Jenny that Giles did truly miss her.

In the episode, “Passion,” it looked like Giles and Jenny were finally going to get the romantic evening they deserved. Only Angelus ripped this chance at happiness away from them. Angelus killed Jenny to prevent her from cursing him again, but took this tragic moment much further when he staged a romantic evening for Giles at his home. Giles walked in to rose petals and opera music with champagne and a note reading, “upstairs.” To Giles’s horror, he discovered Jenny’s lifeless body on his bed, as the champagne glasses shattered along with his heart and ours.

4

Xander & Anya

Xander: I’ve gotta say something cause I don’t think I’ve made it clear. I’m in love with you. Powerfully, painfully in love. The things you do, the way you think, the way you move…I get excited every time I’m about to see you. You make me feel like I’ve never felt before in my life. Like a man. I just thought you might wanna know. (Into the Woods, season 5 episode 10)

There is something to be truly said about the quirky and adorable love between Xander and Anya. Anya initially came to Sunnydale as a demon to grant Cordelia’s wish in season 3, but she ended up human when this backfired. Anya soon found herself attached to Xander and the two started an interesting relationship together. While it first seemed like a relationship of convenience, Xander began to truly fall in love with Anya.

Even though Anya typically said the wrong thing at the wrong moment, you couldn’t help but adore her. Anya also started to truly feel for Xander, which really helped her develop as a mortal, as she finally started to understand what it meant to be human.

When Xander and Anya were about to get married, I thought that two of our favorite characters were going to get the happily ever after ending that they deserved. Only Xander had second thoughts and didn’t go through with the wedding after witnessing how his father treated his mother and seeing something similar in an alternate future for him and Anya.

This moment is truly heartbreaking, as Anya loved Xander so completely. Xander felt like he was doing the right thing here, but my heart goes out to Anya.

3

Buffy & Spike

Spike: I’m not asking you for anything. When I say I love you, it’s not because I want you or because I can’t have you. It has nothing to do with me. I love what you are, what you do, how you try…I’ve seen your kindness and your strength, I’ve seen the best of you and the worst of you and I understand with perfect clarity exactly what you are. You’re a hell of a woman. You’re the one, Buffy. (Touched, season 7, episode 20)

I always felt a spark between Buffy and Spike even when they were mortal enemies. There was just an undeniable sense of desire between them and I often used to wonder about what would happen if they ended up together.

In the episode, “Something Blue,” fans got a chance to see a potential for these two when Willow’s spell went horribly wrong and Buffy and Spike said that they were getting married. When Spike got the chip in his head, he was no longer able to hurt anyone, but this became even more complicated for him when he became infatuated with Buffy. Spike’s feelings for Buffy started out somewhat stalker-like, as he would wait outside her window and even steal her panties here and there.

However, Spike revealed true potential and friendship when he sat next to Buffy on her porch after she learned that her mother was very sick. Buffy and Spike remained here in silence and Spike awkwardly patted her back, letting her know that he was truly there for her.

Later on in the series after Buffy came back from the dead, she was desperately trying to feel something and her and Spike shared an epic kiss at the end of the episode, “Once More, With Feeling,” leaving fans completely shocked. Buffy started a dark relationship with Spike, as she tapped into her desires, keeping her relationship with him a secret at first. Later on, their relationship got even more complicated when Spike attacked Buffy sexually, which was extremely difficult to watch.

Spike left town, horrified by his actions, and ended up earning his soul, which gave him a real chance to redeem himself. Even though Buffy and Spike did not get a chance to truly work out, Buffy did appreciate everything he did for her and Spike truly became a man because of her.

There’s something to be said about true love redeeming someone who started out so evil. Spike became a hero one could be truly proud of, performing selfless acts because of his unconditional love for Buffy, which sparked the humanity within his vampire soul.

2

Willow & Tara

Tara: Even when I’m at my worst, you make me feel special. How do you do that?

Willow: Magic. (Family, season 5, episode 6)

While I always shipped Willow and Oz, I felt so incredibly heartbroken when Oz left town. I was beginning to wonder if Willow would ever find true love and we were all lucky enough to witness the beautiful love and friendship between Willow and Tara. Willow and Tara met in Wicca club and quickly discovered that they were the only two members of the group to have any real powers. Willow was very interested in experimenting with witchcraft and magic and she shared so many intimate things with Tara, as their friendship blossomed into something more.

Willow and Tara have always had such a pure and magical love. Tara’s heart had always belonged to Willow and she was even willing to let her be happy when Oz returned, but Willow could not deny where her heart belonged now. When her and Tara blew out the candle together, they were ready to fully explore their feelings for one another.

In a tragic moment later on in the series, Tara was shot and killed in front of Willow. Her lifeless body collapsed in Willow’s arms, as Willow’s grief escalated into pure darkness and vengeance, as her dark magic consumed her. Even though Willow got another chance at potential love later on in the series, nothing can compare to her love with Tara, which is something so transcendent and beautiful.

Some honorable mentions before revealing my number one ship are:

Willow & Oz

Spike & Drusilla

Xander & Cordelia

Spike & Harmony

Buffy & Riley

1

Buffy & Angel

Angel: Are you still my girl?

Buffy: Always. (Enemies, season 3 episode 17)

My number one ship has to go to Buffy and Angel. Giles got it right when he said, “A vampire in love with a Slayer. It’s rather poetic.” There is something so completely romantic about these two together. It’s almost like we are trapped within a dark fairy-tale, as we witness the emotional roller coaster ride between them. Ever since Angel first saw Buffy, he loved her and wanted to help her.

Buffy gave Angel a true sense of purpose, as he did not know how to live with his soul previously. Buffy and Angel’s love has always been complicated, however. They have some unbelievably romantic moments together and some hot and steamy ones as well. After Buffy and Angel make love for the first time, the unthinkable happens when Angel experienced a moment of “true happiness” and lost his soul, as the monster, Angelus, returned. Angelus began tormenting Buffy and her friends, which was so cruel and heartbreaking.

I remember crying along with Buffy so many times after witnessing what she had to go through. To make matters even worse, Angel’s soul was returned right at the moment that Buffy needed to kill him to prevent a demon from swallowing the world. Buffy made the ultimate sacrifice when she told Angel to “close his eyes” and kiss her, right before she stabbed him with her sword. Buffy left town after this, as she could not bear to handle it, but Angel soon returned from hell, as his purpose was not over.

Buffy and Angel tried out being friends, but learned that they could really never be just friends, as Spike pointed out. They both desperately want to be close to one another, but knew that they could never have a true chance at a real life together. Angel wanted Buffy to have a normal life, rather than keeping her hidden in the shadows, and ended up leaving town.

Before Angel left, he surprised Buffy at the prom and the dance between them was so beautiful and romantic, as the rest of the world seemed to just fade away, leaving only Buffy and Angel together. Even though Buffy and Angel do not end up together, their love is so powerful and undeniable. Buffy and Angel will always love one another and I will always continue to ship them.

Their love is beyond messy, but there is something truly perfect about it as well, reminding us that epic love is never easy, but there is really nothing like it in the world.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own comments and thoughts about your favorite ships on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

**I would love it if you would take a moment to check out my Whizbuzz Book page via the link below for everything you need to know about my new book, The Search for Alice, including my author bio page and links to my website and social media sites! Thank you!

If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe.Thanks for your support!

I am so excited to announce that my book,The Search for Alice, is now available!If you enjoy fairy-tale retellings, paranormal romance, horror, and mystery, then this might be the book for you or someone you know! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well. I hope you enjoy!

When Kallie Bennett, a jaded teenage girl plagued by her alcoholic mother and her peers molded out of sheer bubble gum perfection, chases after Alice in Wonderland herself, she ends up lost in her own version of Wonderland, which forces her to face her utmost fears and introduces her to familiar characters with a dark twist. Among these characters is Ches, a gorgeous vampire with a conflicted conscience, who becomes Kallie’s guide and blossoming love interest. She also crosses paths with Queen Hartley, a manipulative witch who has the power to strip away one’s memories and imagination, which brings a bone chilling new meaning to “off with their heads.” In The Search for Alice, Kallie starts to realize that her Wonderland is just as frightening as her own reality and that she cannot always run away from her problems. She must figure out a way to defeat Queen Hartley and return home before it is too late, but she soon learns that escaping Wonderland means leaving Ches behind forever.

Want to read more? You can click the linkdirectly below for a free preview. Thanks for your support!

It’s Throw-Back Sunday TV Fans! For today, I have once again returned to one of my old favorites, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. There’s something to be said about moments in television that can bring you to tears. You invest a lot of time into the shows you watch and connect with the characters on a profound level, which is what makes it so impossibly emotional when certain moments happen, shattering the calm and happy existence you have come to know and rely on.

Whether it is one of your favorite characters dying, an epic romance coming to end, or something else entirely, there are certain heart-breaking moments on television that still impact us today. After many re-watches of Buffy, there are still certain moments that I recognize. I find my heart starting to skip faster, anticipating the worst, even hoping that somehow the outcome might be different with a re-watch.

However, the tragedy replays as it did the first time watching, still bringing tears to our eyes and tugging at our own feelings in the process. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the full series yet.

My top 5 heart-breaking moments from Buffy the Vampire Slayer are:

5

Giles’s discovery of Jenny’s death.

In season 2, Angel loses his soul when he experiences true happiness with Buffy. When he returns to his former monstrous self, Angelus, he stalks and torments Buffy and her friends. It is not enough to simply kill them. He wants them to truly suffer, weakening them further in the process. Fans loved the blossoming romance between Giles and Jenny Calendar.

When Angelus learns that Jenny is on the verge of finding out how to bring the curse back along with his soul, he views her as a threat in the episode, “Passion.” He hunts her down in the school and snaps her neck, which was horrific enough for viewers. However, Angelus doesn’t stop here. Rather, he stages a romantic evening for Giles to walk into. Giles approaches his doorway with a rose waiting for him and happily walks into opera music playing along with champagne and a note reading, “Upstairs.”

To Giles’s horror, he finds Jenny’s lifeless body waiting in his bed, dropping the champagne bottle and shattering it, while the opera music crescendos louder and louder. What makes this moment truly tragic is Giles’s reaction to it. Giles and Jenny were finally going to be reunited and make things work, but Angelus viciously ripped this happiness away from him, toying with his emotions.

4

Tara’s death.

In season 6, Warren is not about to let Buffy and the gang make a fool of him. A once harmless villain has now become deadly. He points a gun at Buffy and Xander to the surprise and horror of fans and shoots it. Xander falls to the ground and it first appears that he is his victim, but the bullet ricochets to the upstairs window and strikes Tara right in front of Willow.

Tara’s blouse has a single blood stain on it, as she falls and collapses in Willow’s arms. Willow’s eyes turn black in rage, now releasing the dark magic and power that she had kept away for so long. The love between Willow and Tara was so pure and beautiful and fans were horrified to see Willow’s love taken away from her in a violent act. The Scoobies have faced evil day after day, but what makes this so awful is that it was a mortal act of violence.

It wasn’t a vampire or a monster, rather it was a human being who felt wronged by the world and took his anger out with a man-made weapon, revealing that mortals can be just as dangerous as monsters in this world.

3

Buffy sacrifices herself to save Dawn.

In the season 5 finale, “The Gift,” Buffy recognizes that her blood is just like Dawn’s. Dawn’s blood is the key to closing the portal that will destroy the world, but she is not about to let her innocent sister suffer the consequences. Buffy makes the decision to jump into the portal to sacrifice herself.

She tells Dawn that “you have to take care of them now. You have to take care of each other. You have to be strong. Dawn, the hardest thing in this world — is to live in it. Be brave. Live…for me.”

This is one of the most powerful and heart-breaking quotes in the entire series for me. Buffy’s unconditional love for her sister, her friends, and the world is beyond words. She has touched the lives of so many people and helped saved innocents with each action, but there is something about this act that transcends all of that.

She recognizes the sacrifice and embraces it, leaving her friends mourning her behind. Spike is left in tears, making this moment that much more tragic for fans, as he does truly love her and feels like he let her down.

2

Buffy kills Angel when his soul returns.

In the season 2 finale, “Becoming,” Buffy knows what she must do and is now truly ready to defeat Angelus so that she can save the world. She recognizes that the good man she came to know and love is gone, leaving only a shell of a monster behind. Seems easy enough, right?

Before Buffy is about to strike the final blow, Willow’s spell works and Angel’s soul returns. Angel doesn’t remember what has happened and Buffy tells him to close his eyes and kiss her, right before she strikes him fatally with a sword, sending his body through the portal. Buffy is still relatively new and young as a slayer in season 2, dealing with high school drama and this is more than any teenage girl could handle.

She leaves Sunnydale behind, unable to deal with her emotions and the loss of her great love by her own hand.

1

Buffy finds her mother’s body.

In season 5, Buffy is dealing with a new sister and a god named Glory who will stop at nothing to find her key and destroy the world. What makes this moment truly tragic is that it is a mortal tragedy. Buffy’s mother, Joyce, has been sick for a while, but when Buffy discovers her body lying on the floor, she becomes an innocent and terrified young girl. Buffy whispers “Mommy,” as we empathize with her completely.

Her powers will not help her here. She is left to attempt CPR and call an ambulance, but it is too late. Her mother is gone and she has to deal with this loss along with realizing that she will now have to pick up the pieces of her family and grow up even faster than she already has.

This episode did not feature any background music so that viewers were able to completely focus on Buffy’s reaction and emotions throughout this heart-breaking scene, which is still incredibly difficult for me to watch.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to share some of your own heart-breaking moments from Buffy the Vampire Slayer in the comments section. Thank you so much for reading and happy viewing!

**I would love it if you would take a moment to check out my Whizbuzz Book page via the link below for everything you need to know about my new book, The Search for Alice, including my author bio page and links to my website and social media sites! Thank you!

If you enjoyed this blog, I would love it if you would click the follow button on your way out to subscribe.Thanks for your support!

I am so excited to announce that my book,The Search for Alice, is now available!If you enjoy fairy-tale retellings, paranormal romance, horror, and mystery, then this might be the book for you or someone you know! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well. I hope you enjoy!

When Kallie Bennett, a jaded teenage girl plagued by her alcoholic mother and her peers molded out of sheer bubble gum perfection, chases after Alice in Wonderland herself, she ends up lost in her own version of Wonderland, which forces her to face her utmost fears and introduces her to familiar characters with a dark twist. Among these characters is Ches, a gorgeous vampire with a conflicted conscience, who becomes Kallie’s guide and blossoming love interest. She also crosses paths with Queen Hartley, a manipulative witch who has the power to strip away one’s memories and imagination, which brings a bone chilling new meaning to “off with their heads.” In The Search for Alice, Kallie starts to realize that her Wonderland is just as frightening as her own reality and that she cannot always run away from her problems. She must figure out a way to defeat Queen Hartley and return home before it is too late, but she soon learns that escaping Wonderland means leaving Ches behind forever.

Want to read more? You can click the linkdirectly below for a free preview. Thanks for your support!

It’s Throw-Back Sunday TV Fans! For today, I have returned to one of my old favorites, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Buffy and her friends are a blast to watch and are always trying to ensure that goodness prevails in order to protect Sunnydale and the rest of the world. But this would get boring if Buffy could always easily save the day against countless vampires.

What makes the show surpass this is the introduction of formidable foes that cross her path. Ranging from the geeks she went to high school with to the first evil that existed in the world, there is a lot of evil and chaos thrown at the Scoobies.

Let’s not forget that some of Buffy’s closest friends have turned on her and mortal enemies have become great allies along the way. Buffy is the Chosen One for sure, but these villains are not only worthy of an all out battle, they are more complex and smarter than your average vampire turned to dust. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch the series yet.

My top 5 villains from Buffy the Vampire Slayer are:

5

Drusilla

Drusilla was introduced to Buffy in season 2 along with her boyfriend, Spike. When she first came to town she was weakened from a mob, but was revealed to possess psychic abilities. When Drusilla is at her full strength she proves to be extremely dangerous and even kills another slayer who gets in her way. What makes Drusilla such a stand-out villain is that she is completely insane.

She has an innocent girl-like quality at first and manipulates Spike to do her bidding, all while having a tea party with her dolls. One of my favorite scenes with Drusilla is when she blindfolds one of the dolls and says she’s not allowed to watch with the rest, as she kills someone brutally in front of them. There is a haunting quality about Drusilla that makes her beyond scary and a real threat to Buffy.

4

Glory

The best way to define her I suppose is if Cordelia had god-like powers with no sense of remorse. Glory is revealed to be a god and Buffy’s sister, Dawn, is the key that she is desperately looking for. In one of the first fights with Glory, Buffy is beaten not just badly, but to a bloody pulp, making fans wonder about how she would be able to defeat her.

Glory is an entertaining villain, keeping her manicure and lip gloss in check while continuing on her quest, refusing to allow anyone to get in her way.

3

The Master

The Master is introduced as the first main villain that Buffy must face in the first season. His face has no humanity left in it, different from other vampires, because of his age. There is a cringe-worthy factor here for sure, but the Master hasn’t left his sense of humor behind either. He is ruthless and powerful and even is able to kill Buffy initially. Thankfully Xander is able to revive her, but he proved to be a dangerous foe and an influence on other vampires nearby.

2

Evil Willow

Everyone loves Willow and she is a great friend to Buffy. When she begins experimenting with witchcraft, it naturally seems like a great way to help Buffy fight the forces of evil. But when Willow loses the love of her life, Tara, she is consumed by rage and evil magic corrupts her.

Willow becomes so powerful that it seems like no one will be able to defeat her. If not for her best friend, Xander, who has no powers or supernatural strength, she would have been lost for good and the world might have been destroyed. Xander uses love to remind Willow that he will always be there for her and it brings her goodness back to the surface.

Some honorable mentions before revealing my number one pick are:

Spike

Faith

The Mayor

The Judge

Mr. Trick

Anyanka

Darla

The First

The Gorch family

The Gentlemen

Kralik

Caleb

The Trio

Harmony

1

Angelus

Buffy and Angel’s love is so passionate and real throughout the beginning episodes. There is something very romantic about the idea of a vampire with a soul and Angel has been trying to do good and make up for the monster he used to be. However, when he is with Buffy, he loses his soul because he experiences true happiness, and Angelus is unleashed on the world once more as a result. Not only is he a vicious killer, but he targets on Buffy’s weakness and mocks their love, making it seem like he did not care for her in the slightest.

He goes after her friends and family and toys with Buffy in a stalker-like way. When Angelus unleashes a demon on the world to swallow it whole, Buffy knows that she must kill him to close the portal. She has pushed her feelings aside and knows that she must defeat him for the greater good. However, this becomes an almost impossible task when Angel’s soul is restored right at the moment she is about to kill him.

Buffy must follow through with this, sacrificing her love to save the world. Her love for Angelus is what makes him such a dangerous villain. Buffy is the Chosen One, but she is also human and a teenage girl with feelings. Her strength is truly tested when Angelus is introduced, but she is able to do what is necessary to defeat him.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to share some of your own favorite villains from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Thanks for reading and happy viewing!

Happy Friday TV fans! I was somewhat uninspired by the shows that aired last night so I decided to return to an old favorite, Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Over the years, Buffy still holds up for me as one of my top shows of all time. Buffy first aired when I was in high school and in desperate need of a female lead to look up to that was strong, resilient, smart, and selfless. Plus Sarah Michelle Gellar’s wardrobe as Buffy helped my fashion sense tremendously.

Watching Buffy helped shape me into the person I am today and while I have not re-watched the show in several years, the episodes are still fresh in my mind. I have to say that out of all my top 5 rankings, this was the most difficult show to narrow down my selections.

I adore making lists so when I was brainstorming last night about which episodes I wanted to include, I found myself scratching off some and adding others repeatedly. There were some that I really wanted to include but I thought it was only fair to pick 5. I think that goes to show that there are so many amazing episodes of Buffy. Good job Joss Whedon!

My five top episodes from Buffy the Vampire Slayer for are:

5

“Hush” (season 4, episode 10).

I have to admit that I still have nightmares about “The Gentlemen” from this episode. They are so well crafted and creepy, that even Freddy and Jason cannot compare. “The Gentlemen” travel to Sunnydale to collect hearts and steal the voices of everyone so that no one can hear you scream. I was in college when this episode first came out and I remember being very hesitant to open my dorm-room door after a knock because of this.

Sure that is a little extreme, but that’s how truly scary these demons were. What really makes this episode stand out is that Buffy and the Scoobies have to find a way to defeat them and communicate with one another without their voices. This leads to some great comedy along the way balanced with sheer terror.

4

“Fool for Love” (season 5, episode 7).

In this episode, Buffy comes very close to dying and is looking for a way to learn from her mistakes and stay alive. She decides to go to the vampire, Spike, for help. She knows that over his lifetime, he has killed two slayers and she wants to know how. For me, Spike has always been one of my favorite characters.

The development of his back-story was so interesting and necessary to the show. What really grabs the viewer is when he tells Buffy that “he’s always been bad,” only to flash back to a scene where he is dressed in a dusty suit, reciting poetry. Who would have thought that one of the most dangerous vampires of all time had a romantic side? We find out through the episode that he was nicknamed “William the Bloody” because of his “bloody awful poetry.”

While it is interesting to see how Spike is turned into a vampire and how he defeated the other two slayers, what really stands out is his love for Cecily. He had been crafting his poetry for her and pouring his heart out, only for her to reject him and say that he is “beneath her.” This moment is what drags Spike’s vulnerability to the surface and comes back to haunt him when Buffy later says the same thing to him.

For me, the end of this episode always stands the test of time. Spike goes off to kill Buffy for making a fool of him and he sees her crying on her porch steps after she has learned that her mother is very ill. He goes to sit with her and comfort her in what I think is the purest and most beautiful moment between them.

At this moment, Spike doesn’t have a soul. Sure, he has a chip in his brain preventing him from hurting others, but he is able to show true compassion and friendship here, which is really beautiful.

3

“The Gift” (season 5, episode 22).

This is a very powerful season finale and I often thought that the series would end here. It wasn’t until the UPN network picked up Buffy for seasons 6 and 7 that it continued on. A lot goes on in this episode and a catastrophic portal opens that can only be closed by the blood of the key, Buffy’s sister Dawn.

Buffy makes the ultimate sacrifice, choosing to jump into the portal to sacrifice herself to save her sister and the world. A flash-back reveals Buffy reminding Dawn that their blood is the same, which brought tears to my eyes. Buffy tells Dawn that “the hardest thing in this world is to live in it. Be brave. Live. For me.”

As if this moment couldn’t have been tragic enough, Spike’s reaction to Buffy’s death is so heart-wrenching and real. He does truly care for her and feels he let her down.

2

“The Zeppo” (season 3, episode 13).

You may be wondering why I included this episode and why it is ranked so high on my list. “The Zeppo” is the funniest episode of the entire series, following a series of events through Xander’s perspective.

In the beginning of the episode, Cordelia talks about how everyone in the Scoobies has something to contribute except for him. He’s like “Jimmy Olsen” or “The Zeppo.” Xander gets into a never-ending adventure where Buffy and the rest of the gang are simply background noise.

Xander’s reaction to each new challenge is hilarious and the music is spot on, which makes this episode stand out for me as one of my all-time favorites.

Some honorable mentions before revealing my number one episode of Buffy are:

“School Hard”

“Halloween”

“Innocence”

“Passion”

“I Only Have Eyes For You”

“Homecoming”

“Lovers Walk”

“The Wish”

“The Prom”

“Living Conditions”

“Something Blue”

“Who Are You?”

“Buffy vs. Dracula”

“Triangle”

“The Body”

“Life Serial”

“Once More, With Feeling”

“Tabula Rasa”

“Conversations with Dead People”

“Lies My Parents Told Me”

“Chosen”

1

“Becoming Part 2” (season 2, episode 22).

This has always been my absolute favorite episode of the series. While the episode has a lot going on, the last moments are what make it so powerful. Angel has lost his soul and became the evil Angelus and Buffy is fully prepared to put a stop to him, recognizing that the man she fell in love with no longer exists within this soulless demon. Angelus is opening the mouth of a demon that will swallow the world hold, unleashing hell upon earth.

Just as Buffy is about to strike him down with a sword and save the day, Willow’s spell takes effect, and his soul has now been returned. Angel doesn’t remember what has happened or where he is. The damage is done; however, as the demon’s mouth has already been opened and Buffy must destroy the love of her life to close the portal. Buffy reveals her selflessness again to save the world, losing her true love in the process.

Once the tragic task is completed, Buffy leaves Sunnydale, unable to deal with the tragic consequences.

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to comment on some of your own favorite episodes. Happy viewing and have a wonderful weekend!